7 ways to improve your networking skills and build better connections

Networking has been accepted universally as the ideal way to connect with like-minded people and explore professional opportunities. Business tycoons network to build a conglomerate, while consultants make new clients through smart networking skills. Startups can attract angel investors and growth partners to further their business by exploring their network.

Strong networking skills can also help you earn extra income through side-hustles that require no investment. One of them is the IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partner Program, which depends on how well you leverage your existing network and build on it. 

Let's learn a few easy ways to improve networking skills and take your professional growth into your own hands. 

1. Communicate:

Good communication is the first step to breaking the ice with someone. The right tone and pitch of voice, the choice of words, the topic you discuss are all critical in kickstarting a relationship. This stands true for professional as well as personal relationships. Fortunately, there are courses and coaches who can work on your communication skills, identify areas for improvement, and help you become a better communicator.

Besides one-to-one communication, public speaking is also essential for a good communicator. As you meet people and build connections with them, you will encounter opportunities to address many people at once. It could be over a round table or at a conference. Well-articulated speeches composed in a manner that strikes a chord with the audience are the bedrock of good public speaking.

2. Good listening skills:

Communication is not just about speaking. One of the best ways to engage with someone is to listen. Try and understand what the speaker is conveying and respond appropriately. It is easier said than done, as good listeners are a rare breed these days. Active listening is not just about reacting thoughtfully but also demonstrating active listening through eye contact, non-verbal signs like smiling and nodding, and so on. If you as one of the IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partners are a good listener, trust and connection with the speaker would be built easily.

A strong client relationship is the bedrock of success for IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partners, and good listening skill is key to it.

3. Add value to their lives:

In professional networking terminology, it would mean that you should bring something to the table while connecting with someone. If the other person is a potential investor, you should have an interesting product. If the other person needs reach and exposure, you should be someone who can provide the same. Similarly, if the other person is looking for financial assistance, as the IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partner you should showcase the excellent proposition that IDFC FIRST Bank's personal loan offers. 

The purpose of networking is to build strong professional networking relationships where both parties can offer something beneficial and unique. For instance, through IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partner Refer & Earn Program, you can help people fulfil their dreams with a personal loan from IDFC FIRST Bank, while you earn 1.5% on every disbursement. It's a win-win situation for both!

4. Putting them first:

To add value to a relationship and communicate well, you must consider the other person's perspective. In other words, engagement with a new connection shouldn't be all about yourself. You do need to present yourself in the best possible manner. That would include showcasing your personality, calibre, and value proposition, but it should also be about the other person.

As you interact and connect with someone new, try to get a sense of what they need and moderate the discussion in a manner that resonates with them. This will hold their attention during the discussion and ensure that you impress them. It would be difficult to establish a connection with even a very relevant professional networking contact if the person feels isolated in the conversation. 

If you look and ask for feedback, you will get a better view of their perspective. It could be done by observing their reactions to what you say and how well you can converse with them. If your interaction with the other person is deflected, you must improvise the flow of communication and add more intrigue to the conversation.

5. Be socially active:

Consistent engagement within your network is vital to maintain connections and improve them. A networking session at a business dinner shouldn't be followed by months of hibernation. Connect over social media or join common groups, and maintain your presence within the circle through relevant posts and conversation starters. You will be able to maintain a "top of the mind" recall value through your social activeness, which in turn will make subsequent engagements with your connections more seamless.

6. The journey from acquaintance to trust:

Getting to know someone and earning their trust are two ends of a networking session. If your connection develops an instant liking or admiration, it is a sign of your good networking skills. In networking sessions, you have limited time to create an impression in the minds of your audience. While doing so is an art, earning the trust of your audience is an even more difficult feat, albeit necessary. How you pace your conversation, how you feel the pulse of your audience and how you drop the correct information at the right time will decide whether you earn their trust or not. Not surprisingly, good listening skills come in handy here as well.

7. Following up:

When you build a connection, it is necessary to maintain the "recall," which is done through follow up conversations and engagements. For example, when you are part of the IDFC MyFIRST Partner Program, your follow up communication with your prospective referral is crucial. It can help you develop the referral and steer them towards the personal loan they can benefit from.

As you read this, recall if you need to follow up with someone. Or someone who you can connect with to expand your network.

These simple tips like listening and offering the best possible solutions, being socially active and communicating right can help you achieve limitless success with earning opportunities like IDFC FIRST Bank's MyFIRST Partner Program. So, why wait? Start bridging the gaps and making money through your networking skills without any investment today.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.